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The following article was posted on May 28th, 2014, in the New Times - Volume 28, Issue 44 [ Submit a Story ]

The following articles were printed from New Times [newtimesslo.com] - Volume 28, Issue 44

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Cougars & Mustangs

BY CHRIS WHITE-SANBORN

Cal Poly students are gearing up for finals, and Cuesta-goers have already escaped them. The latter group contains many students already hailing from the Central Coast, but does not consist exclusively of them, as good education can draw in populace from far and wide, especially when some unique programs are being offered. All the same, when discussing marvels the area has waiting within, it is naturally a lot harder to surprise coastal natives than those who are new to the area.

The world is rich and unique, though, and even the most seemingly ordinary of spots may have notable history to it. As much fun as it is driving past large old houses and imagining the Victorian dramas that may have once unfolded (which is a pastime I’d consider terribly healthy for one’s imagination), you can inspect real glimmers of an older daily life at such locations as the Jack House. The Historic Jack House and Gardens, located on Marsh Street near Nipomo Street, is probably one of those places that as a native, despite having passed by many times and wondering what lies within, you haven’t actually taken the time to visit. But with a cost of only $5 (kids 12 and under free, in fact), a trip to this beautiful building for a tour during its hours of Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. is quite lovely. Pleasant tour guides explain facts about why a chair is so low to the ground or how the piano came to be in the possession of the original occupant’s family. It’s a nice, relaxing little tour perfect for stretching one’s legs on a lazy Sunday.

While you’re downtown, you may come across a building currently housing the office of Kenneth P. Tway, M.D. The unique-looking building was actually designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, marking it as one of the few commercial buildings the architect designed. As you pass the building, take a moment to inspect the distinctive railing on the sides of the road next to it that protects pedestrians from falling into the creek. The red metal silhouettes some recognizable landscape and is a detail often missed even by those who’ve lived in the town their whole lives. There are actually a great many notable pieces of architecture or old, historic buildings in SLO. While not every one has tours available or even entrance permitted, these are an integral part of the town’s lovely atmosphere and worth more than just a momentary glance.